BUDGET TRAVEL TIPS

5 Travel Products That Will Last a Lifetime

Sick of replacing your luggage every year? Or buying yet another umbrella after yours snapped in half (during a rainstorm, of course)? These five travel products come with warranties that take the stress out of packing.

By Colleen Clark, Wednesday, Nov 14, 2012, 1:00 PM

Don't even get us started on the average lifespan of a suitcase these days—twin thank-you's to shoddy craftsmanship and oh-so-delicate baggage handlers. But there are some companies that still place a premium on durable materials, functionality, and timeless design. We've put together a list of products that will be reliable travel companions from now till you take that retirement trip to Mars.

Briggs & Riley Medium Expandable Upright Suitcase Nothing faces more wear-and-tear than a checked bag. But Briggs & Riley is so confident about the durability of their suitcases—from the ballistic nylon fabric to the lightweight fiberglass frame—that it guarantees them for life. If it's ever damaged (even by an airline!) the company will repair it for free. briggs-riley.com; $499

(Courtesy Briggs & Riley)

Davek Travel Umbrella If $79 for an umbrella seems steep, just add up the cost of all the cheap, flimsy ones you've had to replace in the past 10 years, and we're guessing you'll come up with a much larger number. Davek's solid steel shaft, reinforced frame, and 190 thread-count fabric mean it's an investment piece that will last. And if it doesn't, they'll replace it for free. davekny.com; $79

(Courtesy Davek)

L.L. Bean Camp Sleeping Bag In 2012, L.L. Bean celebrates 100 years in the outdoor gear business. That century of wisdom goes a long way when it comes to making quality products like this flannel-lined sleeping bag. The scroll quilting prevents the high-loft polyester lining from shifting or clumping. And if it should ever do you wrong, send it back for a new one. llbean.com; $79

(Courtesy LLBean)

Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody Weighing in at just 12.7 smooshable ounces (with teeny carrying case), the windproof and weather-resistant Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody protects you from the elements without taking up too much room. And it comes with the company's ironclad guarantee—if it doesn't live up to your expectations, they'll replace or repair it for you. patagonia.com; $199

(Courtesy Patagonia)

Saddleback Gadget Bag A leather bag wears its history in its creases. And this multi-purpose bag is made well enough to stick around for a lot of history. The bag's thick full-grain boot leather is sewn together with industrial marine-grade thread, has rivets at all stress points, and no easily breakable parts (like snaps and zippers). Plus, it comes with a 100-year-warranty. saddlebackleather.com; from $162